What is an obstacle? The definition of an obstacle is a thing that blocks one’s way or prevents or hinders progress.
If others share this rightful claim on you, do not we even more? Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ. 1 Corithians 9:12. ESV.
God’s grace
The apostle Paul faced many obstacles such as being shipwrecked. He openly writes about “a thorn in his side.” He prays and asks the Lord to remove and comes to the conclusion that God’s grace is sufficient to meet his needs.
Read with me in 2 Corinthians 12 of the reason Paul feels he was given this thorn.
On behalf of this man I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses— though if I should wish to boast, I would not be a fool, for I would be speaking the truth; but I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me. So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12: 5-10. ESV.
Three times Paul asks for the thorn to be removed, and we have the outcome that God’s grace is sufficient to meet our needs.
So what is an obstacle that I face? For me, it is my health. Many days I endure pain and my heart beats fast. The migraines are intense, the feeling that I may pass out is sometimes debilitating. Yet, I face each day with hope.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13. ESV
My motto has been for years, “Put one foot in front of the other.”
Yes, I face the obstacle of my health but I also know God’s grace is sufficient to meet my need. Raising children, working, and now writing I persevere with God’s help.
What obstacle are you facing?
Father God, may each person draw strength from You for the obstacle in their life. May they find comfort in You. In Jesus’ name. Amen
#compelwritingchallenge
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